Big celebrity names and accomplished actors are often what draw viewers into television shows. They are the ones with most lines, the most drama and the biggest paychecks. However, I feel like it is often the B-list characters that really give a show some heart. These are the ones who aren't always at the forefront but continuously prove that the shows are still worth watching.
Here are some of the most top-notch of TV's underdogs:
1. Creed Bratton, "The Office."
His one-liners are incredible. Honestly, iconic. Despite being in every season, he never seems to have any idea of what's going on... and it's beautiful. He is probably a drug addict and definitely a sociopath. And, he may or may not be the Scranton Strangler, which, looking back, now makes perfect sense. Such complexity in such a simple man!
2. Ferguson, "New Girl."
Ferguson was there for Winston when no one else was. Granted, it was because Winston stole him from his ex-girlfriend... BUT, they are a match made in heaven and possibly the best duo on the show. And that's saying a lot considering I am traditionally a dog person.
3. Mr. Clarke, "Stranger Things."
The Hawkins Middle School science teacher doesn't get enough credit. If not for Mr. Clarke, moderator of the AV club (which coincidentally only consists of four members), Mike, Lucas, Dustin and Will would know significantly less about alternative dimensions and the whole acrobat and flea on a tightrope deal. Who knows if they ever would have figured out about the upside-down without his bumbling yet wise guidance. And, I mean come on, look at that mustache.
4. Mona-Lisa Saperstein, "Parks and Recreation."
Mona-Lisa is perhaps the most annoying and self-centered character on television. This deserves recognition. I mean, can you think of a more iconic and disgusting catchphrase than "money please???"
5. Oscar George Bluth, "Arrested Development."
Not to be confused with his twin brother and patriarch of the Bluth family, George Oscar Bluth, Oscar George Bluth is the long-time lover of Lucille Bluth and always stirring up drama. With hair akin to Argus Filch and a lack of social skills that can only be surpassed by his and Lucille's love-child Buster, Oscar keeps everyone watching on their toes.
6. Ranjit Singh, "How I Met Your Mother."
Ranjit is the perfect example of a character who deserves more. He is constantly putting up with the main characters' shenanigans and rarely gets a word of thanks. Don't worry, Ranjit. We care.
7. Bran Stark, "Game of Thrones."
TBH, pretty sure the entire future of the show rests on Bran's shoulders. Y'all wanted to count him out when he almost died in season one, but he's come back to potentially save/ruin the seven kingdoms with some crazy incest-related truth bomb.
8. Carol, "The Walking Dead."
Everyone is always either Team Rick or Team Daryl, but honestly, EVERYONE should be Team Carol. She went from a timid abuse survivor to a frackin' badass, strong, confident woman who does exactly what she thinks is right. She isn't afraid to be on her own in the zombie-ridden world or to tell the emotionally-stunted male leads which way is up. ILY Carol.